IND vs SA, Ashwin Predicts Two Big Changes in India’s Playing XI for Guwahati Test

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IND vs SA, Ashwin Predicts Two Big Changes in India’s Playing XI for Guwahati Test: After a disappointing 30-run defeat in the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, the Indian team is under pressure to bounce back in the second and final Test in Guwahati. However, injury concerns loom large over the team’s players.

Following the injury to team captain Shubman Gill, vice-captain Rishabh Pant will lead the Indian team in the second Test starting November 22. With crucial World Test Championship points at stake, all eyes are on India’s playing XI.

Injuries and Strategy: Two Expected Changes

Former Indian cricketer and renowned spinner R. Ashwin has given his opinion on the expected changes in the playing XI on his YouTube channel. Ashwin expects two key changes for this crucial match, both due to injury and strategy:

1. Sai Sudarshan replaces Gill (due to injury)

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The first change is a replacement for Shubman Gill, who has been ruled out of the second Test due to an injury sustained while batting in the first match.

  • Ashwin’s suggestion: Sai Sudarshan will join the team to replace Gill.

2. Nitish Kumar Reddy replaces Axar Patel (strategic change)

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The second expected change in the bowling department is a strategic move.

  • Ashwin believes: Nitish Kumar Reddy will be brought into the team in place of all-rounder Axar Patel.

Also Read: IND vs SA 2nd Test Pitch Report: Fast or Spin-Friendly at Barsapara Stadium?

Ashwin explains the rationale behind the change

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Ashwin justifies this strategic move, saying that India already has strong spin variety with Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, and Kuldeep Yadav.

  • He cautioned against having too many spin options.
  • He argues that this could create confusion about the role of the main strike bowlers.
  • Ashwin also said that if Nitish Reddy is included in the team, When playing Gill, the team must be absolutely clear about the roles of its main strike bowlers.

Ajinkya Rahane’s Guidance: Advice for Stand-In Captain Pant

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Experienced batsman Ajinkya Rahane, who participated in the discussion, emphasized the important role of stand-in captain Rishabh Pant, who will lead the team in Gill’s absence.

  • Aggressive Style and Planning: Rahane emphasized the need for Pant to stick to his aggressive style while also ensuring a strong plan.
  • Multi-Pronged Game Plan: Rahane highlighted the need for the team to have multiple game plans in place. This is because South Africa will be equally eager to win the series.
  • Confidence and clarity: Rahane believes that Pant needs to fully support his abilities. Most importantly, he needs to instill confidence in the players so that they can execute their plans effectively.

Rahane concluded that in such a short two-match series, there is no time for hesitation. All these steps will be crucial for India’s success in the series-deciding Guwahati Test.

Also Read: India’s probable squad for the ODI series against South Africa